Collagen Supplements

Searching all the collagen supplements can be confusing. There are so many collagen supplements available online and in health food stores. What ingredients differentiate good collagen supplements form average collagen supplements? Here's some items to consider for your collagen supplement.

Different Collagen Supplements SourcesAll species share some molecules, because all species are related through evolution. The closer two species are in the evolutionary history, the more similar their molecules will be. Twinlab Maxilife Collagen Type II™ and Olympian Labs Biocell Collagen II™ both contain chicken collagen. The also have chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid, but in different ratios. Chondroitin sulfate was first isolated in the 1960s. It comes from animal cartilage. Hyaluronic acid is found in the fluid of the eyes and in joints. It's found elsewhere in the body at lower concentrations. Rooster combs and bacteria are major sources of hyaluronic acid. Both ingredients are popular in supplements that are designed to promote joint health.

TOKI collagen is derived from pig skin processed in Japan,under strict food standards. Unlike chicken collagen, the porcine collagen in Toki has been tested for changes in skin quality and/or impedence. Toki has undergone two clinical studies in these areas.

Why would a supplement for the skin contain vitamin C? Some researchers believe that vitamin C helps in a reaction that is essential for skin growth and maintenance. Collagen is a significant component of skin tissue. Skin cells create procollagen and export it into the space between the cells. Enzymes called prolyl hydroxylases covert the procollagen into collagen. The prolyl hydroxylases need vitamin C for this reaction. When a person lacks vitamin C, skin problems can develop. TOKI® contains vitamin C because of its essential role in skin growth and maintenance.

When evaluating collagen supplements, look for those scientifically tested for its intended benefit. Most collagen products have research on joint health. Toki research has been focused on aging skin. If you seek collagen skin benefits also look for a supplement that contains vitamin C. TOKI®, Nature's Bounty Hydrolyzed Collagen with Vitamin C Tablets™, and RejuviCare Collagen Beauty Formula Dietary Supplement Liquid™ all contain vitamin C. Twinlab Maxilife Collagen Type II™ and Olympian Labs Biocell Collagen II™ do not contain vitamin C. It is important to read and understand the ingredients of collagen supplements before taking them.